A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nice vs. Barcelona for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Nice or Barcelona?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nice and Barcelona can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nice

Nice is a chic, glamourous, and beautiful seaside destination. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a high energy, youthful, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nice and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Basilica Sagrada Familia
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Nice or Barcelona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona than Nice. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Barcelona is very popular for its museums, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Nice attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is famous for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Barcelona is famous for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia.

How is Nice different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Barcelona and Nice. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nice or Barcelona?

Nice
Barcelona

Barcelona is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Nice or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nice
Barcelona

Nice is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Nice have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Nice or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Nice
Barcelona

Both Nice and Barcelona are world-class when it comes to partying.

Nice is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

Barcelona has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Is Nice or Barcelona Better for Music?

Nice
Barcelona

Barcelona is renowned for its live music scene. However, Nice is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Barcelona Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Nice is not a live music destination.


Is Nice or Barcelona Better for Resorts?

Nice
Barcelona

Nice is renowned for its resorts. However, Barcelona is not a resort destination.

Nice is a world class resort vacation destination. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Barcelona is not a resort destination.

Is Nice or Barcelona Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice
Barcelona

Nice is a seaside destination with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nice or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Nice
Barcelona

Nice is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beache.

The beaches at Nice attract visitors from all over. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Barcelona offers a nice beach destination. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.


Is Nice or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Nice
Barcelona

Both Nice and Barcelona have great historic old towns worth visiting.

Nice is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Barcelona?

Nice
Barcelona

Barcelona is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Barcelona make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nice. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

Is Nice or Barcelona Better for Families?

Nice
Barcelona

Both Nice and Barcelona are nice to visit with kids.

Nice is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Barcelona is a family-friendly seaside destination. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.


Is Nice or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Nice
Barcelona

Nice is renowned for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Nice is a great seaside destination for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Nice or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nice
Barcelona

Barcelona is renowned for backpackers. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nice. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

Is Nice or Barcelona Better for Students?

Nice
Barcelona

Barcelona is renowned for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Nice is not popular with students.


Is Nice or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nice
Barcelona

Both Nice and Barcelona offer great public transit options.

The public transit in Nice can get you around easily. There are both buses and trams.

Barcelona offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Nice or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Nice
Barcelona

Nice is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Nice on foot. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable seaside destination. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Nice Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Nice?

How long in Nice or Barcelona?

Both Nice and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Nice. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Nice, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

Families should spend more time in Nice than Barcelona. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Nice, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Nice than Barcelona. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nice that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Nice if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Barcelona.


  • How many days in Nice or Barcelona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nice 3-5 
    Barcelona 3-7

One day in Nice or Barcelona?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the quaint seaside destination of Nice. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Barcelona is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Nice or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Nice. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This seaside destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Nice or Barcelona?

You'll find nightlife and food around the opulent seaside destination of Nice. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this seaside destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this seaside destination has to offer.

Barcelona is a youthful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Nice or Barcelona?

Nice is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Barcelona is a youthful city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Barcelona or Nice?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nice is €131, while the average daily cost in Barcelona is €156. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nice and Barcelona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nice 59
    Barcelona 96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nice 118
    Barcelona 192
Compare Hotels in Nice and Barcelona

Looking for a hotel in Nice or Barcelona? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nice


Hotels in Barcelona


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nice Hotel Prices and Barcelona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nice 25
    Barcelona 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nice

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nice:

  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Nice Airport: $38
  • Departure Transfer from Nice City to Côte d'Azur Airport NCE in Private Car: $44
  • Arrival Transfer from Côte d'Azur Airport NCE to Nice City in Private Car: $44
  • Monaco to Hercule Monte Carlo Port Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Villefranche-sur-Mer - Port de la Santé to Nice hotels- Arrival Private Transfer: $50
  • Port de la Santé to Nice Intl Airport (NCE) - Private Departure Transfer: $50
  • Villefranche-sur-Mer - Port to Nice hotels- Arrival Transfer: $50
  • Villefranche Port to Nice Intl Airport (NCE) - Departure Transfer: $50
  • Nice Cote d'Azur Airport (NCE) to Nice hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $50
  • Nice hotels to Port de la Santé - Departure Private Transfer: $50
  • Nice Intl Airport (NCE) to Port de la Santé- Arrrival Private Transfer: $50
  • Departure Transfer: Villefranche Port to Nice Airport: $53

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Barcelona

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Barcelona are as follows:


  • 10 Trip Metro Ticket
    7.80
  • Airport Bus
    5.00
  • Metro
    2.10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Barcelona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Barcelona:

  • One-Way Shared Transfer to/from Airport and City: $9.23
  • Roca Village Shopping Mall Transfers: $13
  • Private Transfer from Barcelona Airport to Barcelona Center Port : $18
  • Transfer departure Shuttle Barcelona City to Barcelona Port: $18
  • Transfer arrival Shuttle Barcelona Airport to Pineda de Mar: $23
  • Barcelona Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) Private Transfer: $25
  • Transfer to Montserrat Monastery from Barcelona: $27
  • Barcelona Private Airport Arrival Transfer: $28
  • Taxi - Cab - Private transfer from Barcelona City Centre to Barcelona airport: $29
  • Barcelona Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $30
  • Barcelona City to Cruise Port Private Transfer: $30
  • Private Transfer: El-Prat Airport (BCN) to Barcelona City Center: $31

Is it cheaper to fly into Nice or Barcelona?

Prices for flights to both Barcelona and Nice change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nice 49
    Barcelona 33
Typical Food Prices in Nice

Some typical examples of dining costs in Nice are as follows:


  • Slushee
    2.50
  • Strawberries
    4.00
  • Loaf of Bread
    3.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nice

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Nice.

  • Nice Small-Group Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties & Wine Tasting: $89
  • Viator Exclusive: Organic French Dinner in the Garden of Nice: $96
  • The Flavors of Nice Food Tour: $104
  • Old Nice Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $105
  • Viator Exclusive: Local Cooking Class & Dinner with View of Nice: $108
  • 3.5-Hour Original Old Town Food Tour: $109
  • Half Day Afternoon Walking Food Tour with Dinner: $149
  • Dinner in the vineyard French Riviera: $175

Typical Food Prices in Barcelona

Some typical examples of dining costs in Barcelona are as follows:


  • Hot Cocoa & Churro
    4.15
  • Sandwich
    1.70
  • Baguette & Horchata
    3.80
  • Tapas on the beach
    8.28
  • Gelatto
    2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Barcelona

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Barcelona.

  • Barcelona Guided Street Food Tour and Gothic Quarter Visit: $21
  • Barcelona Street Food Tour with Local Market & City Center Visit: $21
  • Walking Tour + Flamenco + Tapas Dinner (choose options): $27
  • Flamenco at El Patio Andaluz with Optional Dinner: $27
  • Hard Rock Cafe Barcelona with Set Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Tasty Barcelona Street Food Tour With Local Market Visit : $32
  • La Barceloneta: Tapas Food Tour: $38
  • Barcelona La Barceloneta Tapas Food Tour: $39
  • Barcelona Street Food Tour: Local Market & Gothic Quarter with Expert Guide: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas 5-Course Pairing Dinner: $60
  • Wine Tasting & Tapas Pairing Dinner: $61
  • Paella Cooking Experience and Wine in Barcelona: $61

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nice 12
    Barcelona 33

Tours and Activities in Nice

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Nice are as follows:

  • Vieux Nice : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.16
  • Nice : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.16
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Ticket to Musée National du Sport: $6.52
  • Monaco Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Nice Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Nice's Old Town Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $7.06
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $7.06
  • Nice city tour: audio guide app in your smartphone: $7.60
  • Nice Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Historical Highlights Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99

Typical Entertainment Prices in Barcelona

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Barcelona are as follows:


  • Picasso Walking Tour and Museum Pass
    42
  • Souvenir Gaudi Book
    8.55
  • Admission to Museo Picasso
    6.00

Tours and Activities in Barcelona

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Barcelona are as follows:

  • Sagrada Familia: History&Legends Comedy Tour: $2.17
  • History & Legends Comedy Tour: Barcelona Gothic Quarter: $2.99
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Barcelona Free Tour: Gaudi Highlights and La Sagrada Famila: $3.26
  • Alternative Free Tour of the Raval: $3.26
  • Gothic Quarter Free Walking Tour in English: $3.26
  • Gaudí Free Tour in English: $3.26
  • Escape Game and Tour: $3.26
  • Sagrada Familia Comedy Tour: $3.29
  • Self-Guided Tours 150+ Captivating Audio Stories: $3.29
  • Barcelona Gaudi and Sagrada Familia Tour: $3.30
  • Gaudí & Sagrada Familia Free Tour in English : $3.30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nice 17
    Barcelona 17

Sample the Local Flavors in Nice

Also in Nice, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Nice Bar Crawl | Ultimate night experience: $8.69
  • Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entry and Free Shots: $16
  • Riviera Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $23
  • Riviera Bar Crawl Nice: $28
  • Pub Crawl/Bar Crawl NICE - The Ultimate Night: $29
  • Brewery Tour and Craft Beer Tasting: $33
  • New Year's Eve Pub Crawl with Shots and VIP Club Entry: $53
  • New Year’s Eve Bar Crawl Nice France: $54
  • Provence Organic Wine Tasting Half Day Tour from Nice: $66
  • Wine Tasting: Tour de France in Nice City Centre: $75
  • Half-Day Saint Paul de Vence and Wine Tasting Tour: $84
  • Exclusive Food and Wine Tour in Menton - 3 hours - small groups: $99

Sample the Local Flavors in Barcelona

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Barcelona:

  • Barcelona Pub Crawl by KING - Nightlife Party Experience: $16
  • Estrella Damm Brewery Guided Tour with Tasting: $16
  • Pub Crawl with VIP Venue Access and Welcome Shots: $16
  • Barcelona Pub Crawl by King - Free shot with VIP Entry: $16
  • Night Pub Crawl Tour in Barcelona: $17
  • Estrella Damm Brewery in El Prat de Llobregat tour with Tasting: $17
  • Estrella Damm Old Brewery Tour with Tasting: $22
  • Pub Crawl Barcelona by EVOLVE The BEST night experience: $22
  • Estrella Damm Old Brewery Barcelona Guided Tour with Beer Tasting: $22
  • Barcelona Pub Crawl by KING - Free shot and VIP Entry: $22
  • Go out like a local, pub Crawl / Tour in Raval - Barcelona: $24
  • Barcelona Bar Crawl: $26


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nice and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona is more expensive. And not only is Nice much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nice would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nice and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona than you might in Nice.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nice Expensive? and Is Barcelona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nice or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Nice and Barcelona, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Nice or Barcelona?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nice or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Nice because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In July, Nice is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 23°C (73°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Nice usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nice 23°C (73°F) 
    Barcelona 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Nice or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Nice during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nice this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Nice is around the same temperature as Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nice. Nice usually gets more rain in October than Barcelona. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nice 17°C (63°F) 
    Barcelona 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Nice or Barcelona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and Barcelona. Many travelers come to Nice for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Nice is around the same temperature as Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nice in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In January, Nice usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nice 9°C (48°F) 
    Barcelona 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Nice or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nice as well as Barcelona. Many visitors come to Nice in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Nice is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 13°C (56°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Nice usually gets more rain in April than Barcelona. Nice gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nice 13°C (56°F) 
    Barcelona 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Nice

Nice Barcelona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 10°C (50°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 20°C (67°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)